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How to train a new puppy to stop humping and barking excessively?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Yorkshire Terrier | Male | unneutered | 6 months and 16 days old | 6 lbs

I adopted a six month old puppy and I already have 2 dogs age10 and 7. He tries to hump the 10 yr dog, what do I do? They are all males. Also how do I train him safety not to bark so much. Neighbor issues.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 27th, 2018

Hi there and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to address your question. I see that Oliver is not neutered. The behavior you are talking about is likely Oliver trying to establish dominance over the other 2 dogs. I would recommend neutering Oliver to see if this helps reduce this behavior. You can also try the Adaptil products and see if this helps to reduce the behavior. Adaptil products can be found online or at your local PetCo. To deter him from barking, I recommend using a spray bottle and spritzing him in the face every time he barks. You can also use citronella spray collars that are triggered by barking and then emit a fine mist of citronella oil in front of the face. The citronella collar can be found online as well. I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns and I would be more than happy to help you further.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Elva Ma DVM
Veterinarian
Published on January 5th, 2018
Hello, and thank you for your question. I'm glad to hear that Oliver will be starting training tomorrow. A few things to consider:

1) Has Oliver been fully checked by a vet and confirmed healthy? Sometimes medical issues such as pain can be a root cause or a contributing factor towards aggression.
2) Ensure that you are not unknowningly reinforcing the barking by responding to him when he barks. Barking is a request for attention, so if you don't give the attention when he barks, he will eventually learn that it doesn't work. Only reward him with praise and treats when he is quiet and calm.
3) When he growls at people, do not punish him or yell at him. Ignore the behaviour. Have people offer him treats, so that he realizes they are not a threat. Praise him when he responds calmly and quietly.
4) Make sure Oliver has a quiet spot for himself where he feels safe. This can be a crate, or a dog bed in a corner of the house. If he ever feels threatened or scared, he will always have this place to retreat to, to feel safe. Put his toys and other comfort items there. You can also look into a doggie pheromone spray called Adaptil, which can help to reduce anxiety and stress in young dogs.

I hope this helps, and that your training sessions go well! Good luck!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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